The Charlotte County community in southwest Florida is grappling with the devastating loss of Corporal Elio Diaz, a dedicated deputy who was tragically killed in the line of duty on a Sunday afternoon. The incident, which unfolded during a seemingly routine traffic stop, has left the community reeling and sparked an outpouring of grief and support for the fallen officer and his family. The circumstances surrounding the shooting have sent shockwaves through the region, prompting reflection on the inherent dangers faced by law enforcement officers and the sacrifices they make to protect their communities.
The tragic events began with a traffic stop initiated by Corporal Diaz at a Chevron gas station situated across from the Sunseeker Resort in Charlotte Harbor. What began as a standard procedure quickly escalated into a deadly confrontation. During the stop, the driver of the white pickup truck, identified as 24-year-old Andrew Mostyn Jr., unexpectedly produced a rifle and opened fire on Deputy Diaz. The sudden and violent attack left Diaz critically wounded, and despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, he succumbed to his injuries. The senseless act of violence shattered the tranquility of the afternoon and plunged the community into mourning.
Following the shooting, Mostyn fled the scene, triggering a large-scale manhunt involving multiple law enforcement agencies. The search intensified as authorities worked tirelessly to apprehend the suspect and bring him to justice. Mostyn was eventually located at a Popeyes restaurant on King’s Highway in Punta Gorda. Upon being confronted by deputies, Mostyn reportedly reached for his rifle once again, leading to a deputy firing a shot that struck him in the head. Mostyn was airlifted to a local hospital but later died from his injuries. The swift apprehension of the suspect brought a measure of closure to the immediate crisis, but the community remained deeply affected by the loss of their respected deputy.
The news of Corporal Diaz’s death sent shockwaves through the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office and the wider community. Sheriff Bill Prummell, visibly distraught, addressed the media, sharing his grief and highlighting Diaz’s dedication and character. He described Diaz as a friend, a devoted family man, and an exemplary officer who would be deeply missed. The sheriff’s emotional tribute underscored the profound impact of Diaz’s loss on his colleagues and the community he served.
State leaders also expressed their condolences and offered support to the grieving family and the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office. Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody and Senator Rick Scott took to social media to share their heartfelt messages of sympathy and acknowledge the sacrifice made by Deputy Diaz. Their words of comfort reflected the widespread sadness and respect for the fallen officer. The expressions of grief extended beyond the local community, demonstrating the impact of such tragedies on the entire state.
Corporal Elio Diaz had a distinguished career with the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office, having served the community since 2013. His dedication and commitment to law enforcement were evident in his performance and his recognition as the department’s law enforcement member of the first quarter in November 2023, just months before his untimely death. The tragic circumstances surrounding his passing serve as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by law enforcement officers every day and the profound impact their service has on the community. His memory will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those he served and protected.
